Question
I jumped feet first into a swimming pool that was only (unknown to me) 3 feet deep! My family doctor says that I have several large heel spurs and I have chipped and cracked one and possibly cracked another on the other foot.  I have had not problems before and did not know I had heel spurs.  But it's been five days and while they are better - I still can't walk on the one foot. My doctor says give it another two weeks on crutches, heel pads and ibuprofen and call her back if it doesn't get better.  How long do you think this will take to heal?  And should I follow this regimen, or seek a second opinion?  I am a self employed photographer and every day I cannot photograph puts me in the hole.  Plus I am an active person and have never been "on the couch" this long, so I am looking to make this a speedy recovery by doing the right thing 1st. Thanks for your assistance.

Answer
Hi Susan,

I would  definitely consider having an MRI of the feet to evaluate the damage to the bone and soft tissue. The treatment you are receiving sounds typical and reasonable.  However, if there is more damage than is evident on regular exams there may need to be more aggressive treatment.  I would also recommend physical therapy to help you get back to work quicker.

These types of injuries can take months to completely get better.  And you could end up with chronic pain that is ongoing.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com

DISCLAIMER:
This information is offered as free advice and as general information. It may not be applicable to the specific questioner and his/her problem.  It is not based on actual knowledge of the questioner or his/her medical history and it cannot and should not be relied upon as definitive medical opinion or advice.  Reliable medical opinion and advice can only be obtained through hands-on physical contact and exam of the patient to establish an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.  No doctor/patient relationship is created or established here and may not be inferred through answers on this site.  The questioner and other readers must consult his/her own doctor before proceeding or implementing any suggestions contained within this document and answers on this site.  The questioner is only to act upon his/her own doctor抯 orders and recommendations. By reading this posting which follows, the reader fully understands and confirms that he/she holds harmless this writer. If this is not fully agreeable to you, the reader, and/or you have not attained the age of 18 years, you hereby are advised to read no further.